Inner Life, Talks and Thoughts

Iain McGilchrist, a renowned psychiatrist and philosopher, joins Mark Vernon to discuss the profound insights of William Blake, whom McGilchrist praises as an exceptionally insightful poet. They dive into Blake's vision of imagination, highlighting quotes like 'To the eyes of the man of imagination, nature is imagination itself.' The conversation explores the tensions of modern life, architecture, and even the implications of AI, advocating for a deeper, collective imagination as a vital force in understanding our existence and nurturing our faith in life's goodness.

In this engaging discussion, historian Chris Harding joins Mark Vernon to explore the visionary world of William Blake. They delve into how Blake’s art reflects a profound, expanded perception of reality—filled with angels and fairies. The conversation touches on Blake's battle against consumerism, his critiques of industrial society, and the significance of spirituality in his works. Vernon urges listeners to embrace Blake's supernatural elements, advocating for a deeper connection with art and our surroundings, ultimately offering a transformative perspective on contemporary life.

Dive into the world of William Blake, a prophetic figure whose insights resonate today. Discover how his call to awaken encourages deep self-connection and divine exploration. The discussion unfolds in the historic St James’s Piccadilly, a fitting backdrop that enhances Blake's enduring message. The transformative power of imagination takes center stage, inviting listeners to reflect on their own journey of awakening.

Dive into the wisdom of William Blake as his top ten quotes are unveiled. Each selection explores profound themes such as perception and joy. Discover how joy and sorrow coexist, woven intricately into the fabric of life. Blake's insights encourage us to see beauty in everyday moments and find the extraordinary within the ordinary. The discussion highlights the transformative power of imagination and love, inviting listeners to embrace the magic and complexity of existence.

Explore the fascinating duality of perception as shaped by William Blake's philosophy. Delve into the journey from narrow views of reality to expansive experiences filled with love and beauty. Discover the transformative power of kindness and how embracing eternity deepens our connections. Uncover insights that intertwine joy with the creative flow of life, revealing a deeper understanding that transcends materialism. Blake's poetry serves as a guide to recognizing the divine in our everyday experiences.

A live conversation with Mark Vernon, Katy Carr and Dexter Bentley from the Hello Goodbye Show.Who was William Blake? What might his music have sounded like? What did he say about the imagination? Why might he understand our predicament today?Mark Vernon and Katy Carr joined Dexter Bentley on Resonance FM to talk William Blake on Saturday 31st May 2025. Katy played six songs - her settings of the Introductions from the Songs of Innocence and also from the Songs of Experience, as well as The Lamb and TheTyger, and finally London and The Blossom.For more on Mark see - https://www.markvernon.com/For more on Katy see - https://katycarr.com/For more on the Hello Goodbye Show see https://hellogoodbyeshow.com/For more on the Idler -  https://www.idler.co.uk/Mark’s book is Awake! William Blake and the Power of the Imagination (out June 2025 in the UK, September 2025 in the US).

Explore the dramatic life of St. Francis amid societal chaos, as feudalism crumbles and mercantilism rises. Delve into the religious upheaval of his time, marked by crusading zeal and the clash with beliefs like those of the Cathars. Discover how Francis's radical shift from wealth to asceticism influenced Christianity and inspired a legacy of love and humility. The conversation also touches on a woman's transformative journey inspired by Franciscan teachings, emphasizing the quest for spiritual renewal in today's disconnected world.

Rupert Sheldrake, a biologist and author renowned for his ideas on morphic resonance, dives into the intriguing evolution of natural laws. He questions the long-standing assumption that nature follows strict laws, tracing its roots to Francis Bacon. The discussion tackles whether laws of nature might be more akin to habits influenced by evolution rather than rigid commands. They explore the universe as a living organism versus a machine, and how creativity and purpose shape life. Sheldrake even considers how miracles could coexist with the flexibility of natural laws.

William Blake opens the third part of his epic poem, Jerusalem: the Emanation of the Giant Albion, with an astonishing remark. “He never can be a friend of the Human Race who is the Preacher of Natural Morality or Natural Religion.”The declaration is shocking because today, two hundred years since he first printed these lines, naturalistic explanations of morality and religion have become standard. Even amongst champions of Blake.But what did he mean? What did he propose as an alternative? And why might that matter now?An earlier version of this essay is in the current issue of Vala, the magazine of The Blake Society.Mark Vernon’s new book is Awake! William Blake and the Power of the Imagination - out in June 2025 (UK), September 2025 (US). Pre-order now!

In this engaging conversation, Elizabeth Oldfield, author of 'Fully Alive' and host of The Sacred Podcast, discusses the rising interest in Christianity amidst a secular backdrop. She explores the evolving spiritual dialogues among younger generations and the complexities of modern Christian identity. The discussion touches on the diverse experiences of Eastern Orthodoxy, the paradoxes of biblical interpretation, and the need for humility in navigating faith. They highlight how vulnerability can enhance our understanding of faith and community in today's world.